Description

This document reviews the current scientific evidence regarding the pathogen Salmonella enterica, its occurrence and survival in aquatic environment, possible pathways of contamination of aquaculture systems, serovars found in seafood and salmonellosis associated with fish and fishery products. The experts recognized that there are a variety of pathways reported as to how Salmonella can enter the aquaculture environment ranging from wild animals, domestic stock, poor sanitation and inappropriate disposal of human and animal wastes. Control of such pathways poses major challenges such as land runoff during rains, control of wild animals in the farm environment. The experts agreed that good hygienic practices during aquaculture production and biosecurity measures can minimize but not eliminate Salmonella in products of aquaculture. This report contains a series of recommendations to the national governments, national competent authorities, aquaculture industry and FAO.